Scholars call this the summary of Bach's compositions in one large piece. Indeed — completed in the last part of his life, it represents the highest development of his choral and orchestral compositional craft. The Mass in b minor also includes a good amount of parody — previous works re-purposed — rendering this entire work monumental as summary composition. The Mass looks back to Bach's ministry and heritage as a liturgical musician/composer, as well as being one of the most genius of composers in comprehensive Western music history.

Tune in on Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. to hear the National Lutheran Choir perform Bach's seminal Mass in B Minor live from Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota.